He Saw, She Saw

Mon., Nov. 2, 1998

Joel Constable, Lewis & Clark T

“Pleasantville”

Rated: PG-13

The stars: Tobey Maguire, Reese Witherspoon, Jeff Daniels.

The plot: After getting a special remote control, a brother and sister are transported into the black-and-white world of “Pleasantville.”

HE SAW

Despite the interesting premise of “Pleasantville” and wonderful acting, one main problem surfaces. “Pleasantville” is a quality movie, but only for the first hour and a half.

The last half hour drags and culminates with an ending that leaves many unanswered questions.

Although “Pleasantville” is not the kind of action-packed thriller I tend to enjoy, the quality acting and unique story line make for a great hour and a half and a pretty good two hours.

Grade: B-

SHE SAW

“Pleasantville” begins by depressing us and ends by confusing us.

The first half of “Pleasantville” is great, when the brother and sister team from another time begin to mess with the locals’ ideas. It’s comedy at best when the characters are adapting to their new surroundings.

The second half is less amusing and more confusing. So much is left unsaid at the end.

The symbolism is powerful, holds the film together and provides a change of pace.

Grade: A-

Theresa Carpine, Ferris

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